Ironically,
it was through one of Passions hokier gimmicks – the green mist –
that viewers were treated to one of the show's most realistic romances: the
odd pairing of Julian and Eve.

Both characters
have been separately embroiled in more than their fair share of satirical and
farcical machinations, so it was a pleasant surprise to see their union portrayed
with down-to-earth sincerity, quiet tenderness and subtle affection. In this
mist-induced vision of what would have happened had they made different choices
in their lives, Julian was disinherited by Alistair for standing up to his father's
disapproval of his interracial relationship with Eve. For her part, Eve followed
through on her musical aspirations and parlayed her nightclub act into Whitney
Houstonesque fame and fortune.

Through
this exercise in what-ifs, viewers got a glimpse of a kinder, gentler Julian,
a self-actualized Eve, and a really sweet relationship. Ben Masters and Tracey
Ross are to be commended for so believably revealing new facets of their characters,
and for fashioning a compelling backstory for Julian and Eve – one that
might even entice fans to root for this unlikely couple.